California Eminent Domain Attorneys

The business law attorneys at Testa & Associates provide legal services to commercial and residential property owners facing the loss of a home or business to a government entity under eminent domain law.

A city, state, county, school district, or public utility company can invoke eminent domain law to “condemn” a property in order to acquire it for a public purpose. Some of those purposes are important to the community, such as building a freeway, a school building, or a library.

In other instances, property owners may feel that the power of eminent domain is abused and their property is being taken solely in order to benefit the economic interests of a private developer and to increase the tax base of a city.

In rare instances, it is possible to “fight city hall” and prevent seizure of private property by eminent domain. This is difficult and requires an attorney with a great deal of experience and commitment to handling zoning law and eminent domain cases. Contact an eminent domain attorney at Testa & Associates for a legal opinion about the potential for success in your specific case.

Why Work with an Attorney?

The government entity obtaining your property through eminent domain must negotiate with you and pay you the full market value of your property—and of your business. They will provide you with a valuation of your property, but you do not need to accept that valuation as accurate.

By working with an experienced eminent domain attorney, it may be possible to negotiate a substantially greater financial recovery. The business attorneys at Testa & Associates are skillful negotiators with extensive courtroom experience. We will ensure that you receive the full compensation you deserve.

What is Just Compensation in an Eminent Domain Case?

The owner of a residential or commercial property is entitled to compensation for the value of their real property, the value of any improvements they’ve made to the property, and the value of their business (including “good will”). You are also entitled to relocation benefits, separate from payment for your property.

If you are not satisfied with the amount the government entity is offering you, you have a right to have a jury determine what is “just” in your case.

Trial or Negotiation

The trial attorneys at Testa & Associates have been taking cases to court since 1975. We are prepared to evaluate your initial offer, negotiate an acceptable settlement, or take your claim for just compensation to court. Contact Testa & Associates for legal representation throughout an eminent domain land condemnation proceeding.